A growing number of graduate programs have dropped the GRE requirement over the past several years — which raises a real question for applicants: do you still need to take it?
Many graduate programs cite concerns about the GRE creating barriers for otherwise strong applicants, along with research questioning how well the test predicts graduate school success compared to undergraduate GPA, research experience, and letters of recommendation.
At many “GRE-optional” programs, a strong score submitted voluntarily can still meaningfully strengthen an application — particularly for applicants with a less traditional academic background, a lower GPA, or an undergraduate institution unfamiliar to the admissions committee. A strong score adds a data point; a weak one you simply don't submit.
Many STEM PhD programs, certain funded Master's programs, and some interdisciplinary programs still require it outright, particularly in fields where quantitative reasoning is central to the work. Requirements vary enormously by field and even by department within the same university — there's no universal answer.
Check each target program's current policy directly rather than assuming based on general trends — policies change year to year and vary widely even within the same field. If a program is optional and your profile is already strong on other dimensions, skipping it is reasonable. If your GPA or research background has any gaps, a strong GRE score can help offset that.